Stargazing and UFO Tour

If you’re looking to add a touch of magic to your desert adventure, the Stargazing and UFO Tour offered by Addicted2Wonder Stargazing Joshua Tree might just be your ticket. Though we haven’t personally joined this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what awaits. This experience promises a night away from city lights, equipped with high-tech night vision gear, guided stories, and plenty of starry surprises.

What we love about this tour is how it combines advanced technology—like Gen 3 night vision goggles—with storytelling rooted in both science and legend. It’s a compelling mix that makes the night sky feel close enough to touch. Plus, the small-group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, giving you space for questions and personal attention. The only thing to keep in mind is the drive; about 90 minutes from Palm Springs, this isn’t a quick stop, but it’s part of what makes the experience so special—getting far from light pollution for truly clear views.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers, astronomy buffs, or anyone looking for a memorable evening in the desert. If you’re comfortable with a bit of a drive and appreciate good storytelling and high-quality gear, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Exceptional dark sky location far from urban light pollution
• High-tech night vision binoculars that reveal hidden celestial details
• Informative storytelling about stars, planets, and legends
• Small group ensures a more personal, engaging experience
• Suitable for most travelers, with no specific age restrictions mentioned
• Well-reviewed for knowledgeable guides and overall value

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour starts at the West Entrance Station of Joshua Tree National Park, a logical spot for access to dark skies. The journey from Palm Springs takes about 90 minutes, which might seem long but is worth the trip for the clarity of the night sky. Keep in mind, there are no bathrooms at the meeting point or viewing locations, so plan accordingly—use facilities beforehand or bring a bottle if needed.

The Duration and Group Size

Spanning about 1 hour and 30 minutes, the tour duration is enough to enjoy multiple observations without feeling rushed. The group is limited to just 8 travelers, ensuring everyone gets attention and can ask questions. This intimate setting allows for a richer experience, especially when handling the high-tech equipment.

The Equipment and Viewing Experience

The star of the show is the Gen 3 AN/PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles. These state-of-the-art devices turn the night into a brightly lit canvas, revealing stars and planets that the naked eye can’t see through light pollution or haze. Reviewers are especially impressed by how “awesome” and “mind-blowing” the goggles are, with one commenting that “Seeing the stars through the binoculars was something we are still talking about.”

The tour also provides laser pointers, chairs, and hand sanitizer, making the experience comfortable and user-friendly. The binoculars and goggles are well maintained and designed for easy use, even if you’re not familiar with night vision gear.

The Guide and Stories

Guided by knowledgeable hosts like Tony and Molly, you’ll hear stories that weave science with legends, adding depth and context to the constellations. Several reviews mention Tony’s storytelling ability, describing his tales as “interesting,” “thought-provoking,” and “infectious.” One reviewer notes, “Tony told great stories about the stars,” which really enhances the experience beyond just looking at pretty lights.

The Atmosphere and Additional Comforts

The environmental conditions can be chilly, especially in the desert at night—dress warmly, and consider bringing blankets. Reviewers mention that the hosts are attentive to comfort, with comments about the heated blankets being a “great addition.” The quiet, open sky setting creates a peaceful, almost magical ambiance that’s perfect for relaxing and soaking in the night.

The Cost and Value

At $183 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Palm Springs, but it offers a high-tech, intimate experience that many travelers find worth the splurge. The small group size, quality equipment, and knowledgeable storytelling add to the value, making it more than just a star-gazing outing—it’s an educational and awe-inspiring night out.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

With a perfect 5-star overall rating from 101 reviews, travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable hosts, stunning views, and engaging stories. Comments like “Very interesting tour” and “Incredible experience” reflect that many find this tour memorable and worth recommending. One reviewer even describes it as a “perfect ending to our trip,” emphasizing its suitability as a special, last-night activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of science, storytelling, and technology, this tour is perfect. It suits travelers of most ages, especially those comfortable with a short drive and cool desert nights. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious first-timer, you’ll appreciate the clarity of the skies and the chance to see the universe in a new way.

Those who love local legends, mythology, or indigenous stories will find the storytelling particularly compelling. And if you’re traveling with kids or teens, the tech and tales might just make this their favorite night in Joshua Tree.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking a genuine connection with the night sky, this small-group, technologically enhanced experience offers something special. The combination of dark skies, expert guides, and advanced viewing gear creates an environment where the universe becomes vividly alive. It’s a chance to step outside the usual tourist sights and truly get a sense of the cosmos as it appeared to our ancestors and still appears to those far from city lights.

While the drive from Palm Springs might seem like an investment of time, it’s an investment in clarity, wonder, and storytelling. The tour’s friendly, knowledgeable guides turn a simple star-gazing outing into an immersive experience—one that leaves many visitors saying it’s “worth doing” and “absolutely memorable.”

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate good stories, high-quality gear, and a quiet, awe-inspiring night under the stars. If you want a night that combines science, legend, and technology, and are okay with a bit of a drive, this tour offers excellent value and a truly unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, and there’s no specific age restriction noted. However, keep in mind that the experience involves cold desert night conditions and the use of night vision gear, so younger children should be supervised and comfortable with those conditions.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving enough time to see multiple celestial objects and enjoy storytelling without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the West Entrance Station of Joshua Tree National Park, a designated meeting point that’s easy to find with directions provided in advance.

Are there facilities at the meeting point or viewing locations?
No, there are no bathrooms at the meeting point or viewing sites. Travelers should plan accordingly.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers high-tech night vision goggles, binoculars, laser pointers, chairs, and hand sanitizer. It’s a small group experience, which adds to the personalized feel.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If clouds or rain spoil the sky, the experience may be canceled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re ready for a night of wonder in the desert, with expert guides, top-notch gear, and stories that add a layer of magic, this Stargazing and UFO Tour is worth considering for your Joshua Tree adventure.